John says: Having finally seen The King's Speech, I think I can finally say that yes, it has lived up to all my expectations, and yes, it is easily one of the best movies of the year. The cast is flawless, the filming is immaculate, and the story is memorable and powerfully moving.
Colin Firth stars as King George VI, a man lacking in self-confidence who is suddenly thrust into the role of King when his father dies and brother refuses the crown. He is supported by his wife, playes by Helena Bonham Carter, and his newly-found speech therapist, the lively Geoffrey Rush.
The movie succeeds mainly because of the stellar cast. When Colin Firth wins the Oscar in February (not if, WHEN), it will not be a sympathy vote for last year's A Single Man, it will be because his performance here is one of the strongest in recent memory, a man so pained by his past yet so focused on his commitments to his wife and country. Geoffrey Rush, playing the Australian doctor, is equally moving. He brings a certain sense of humor to the movie yet manages to portray one of the most sympathetic and loving fathers and friends. Helena Bonham Carter, fresh off her turn as Bellatrix Lestrange, also delivers a solidly warm performance. The three of them work amazingly on their own, but it's the time when they act off each other where the 'magic' really happens.
I don't think I have a single word of criticism for the film. I was completely engrossed in the story, amazed by the art direction and visuals, and completely absorbed by the story, one that I hadn't even been aware of before until seeing the film (yet now want to find out even more!). Easily a film that could and should win multiple Oscars, not because it's a historical drama or it 'fits the profile,' but simply because it's a damn good movie.
Maureen says:
Not only one of the best pictures of the year, but easily one of the most flawless historical dramas ever made. After watching it, comparisons to films such as La Vie En Rose come to mind (and if you know the extent of how much I love that film, that is quite something indeed). The King's Speech is emotional, completely engrossing, and impeccably filmed.
I cannot say enough about Colin Firth's performance in this film, and at the same time, I am utterly speechless. He gives a heart-wrenching performance, painting a perfect picture of the multi-faceted King. Firth's work with the King's stutter is outstanding, but it is only the icing on the cake to the portrayal of his character. I found myself completely and personally involved with the King, and Firth develops him in the best way possible. He manages to convey heartbreak, anger, insecurity, embarrassment, confidence, sadness, and joy; separately to perfection, but somehow combining them throughout the film in the King's overall demeanor. His performance fills out a movie that would stand well on its own and makes it all the more outstanding. Firth's work in last year's A Single Man, though excellent, looks like child's play compared to his acting here. I have seen few performances rivaling this one; among them, Cristoph Waltz in Inglourious Basterds (sure to go down in filmmaking history) and Marion Cotillard in La Vie En Rose. Both of these performances swept awards during awards season, and Firth is almost sure to do the same. In fact, I think it is safe to say that Firth's performance would be a strong contender in any Oscar race from any other year, with any other opponent. Especially considering Firth's lack of strong competition, I am officially predicting his win, and probably with a near-sweep of the Academy's votes.
Helena Bonham Carter (playing the King's wife) and Geoffrey Rush (as the King's speech therapist) are also impeccable in their roles, providing remarkable performances while still allowing Firth to shine. They embody the meaning of "supporting" actors. Each develop distinct characters that play off of each other, creating real theatrical magic. Though not as certain of wins in their respective categories as Firth is this year, both Carter and Rush deserve - and should receive - nominations and recognition.
The King's Speech is really all about Firth and his performance, but it does not succeed solely because of it. Technically, the film is perfect also. Wonderful lighting and cinematography throughout, beautiful costumes, smart editing, and a lovely, fitting score. The screenplay, which is (a little surprisingly) an original work, will be strong competition in the race this year also. The dialogue is perfectly constructed, giving the actors a solid foundation upon which to perform. The film is deserving of multiple nominations, and it will receive them.
Though the race for Best Picture seems it will be tight with The Social Network, my preferred film this year has become The King's Speech. Perhaps it won't win, but it won't be because it does not deserve to. A historical drama that is not really a history, or even a story about a king, but a tale of a man, his struggles, and how he overcomes them. This film receives my very highest recommendation.
(Awards potential: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor (Firth), Best Supporting Actor (Rush), Best Supporting Actress (Carter), Best Original Screenplay, Best Art Direction, Best Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, Best Original Score)
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